Influence Peddling

May 18, 1986

OTTAWA — A Florida vacation. A new bathroom. Washer. Dryer. Dishwasher. Member of Parliament Michel Gravel is accused of obtaining such benefits from contractors doing business with the government. After a yearlong investigation, 50 counts of influence peddling, bribery and abuse of public trust have been filed against the Conservative lawmaker who represents a Quebec riding. The scandal broke as Prime Minister Brian Mulroney returned from a two-week trip to Asia. He said his government would weather the storm caused by the Gravel charges and the resignation of Industry Minister Sinclair Stevens, who was accused of conflict of interest.